Bordeaux 2016: Acte and Grand Village

Our outstanding value pick from 2016 is the magnificent Grand Village Rouge. This idyllic property on the outskirts of the Fronsac commune has produced an astonishing 2016. Hardly surprising when you consider the team behind the wine… the Guinaudeaus. All the investment and know-how from the iconic Pomerol estate, Chateau Lafleur, has helped raise the bar. Forget postcodes, the clay and ‘big limestone’ terroir in the hands of Jacques, Sylvie, Baptiste, Julie and team can produce something quite remarkable.

In truth, the whole Guinaudeau range was spellbinding, but the 2016 Grand Village has perhaps reached a new pinnacle. Although only 14% Cabernet Franc, this varietal speaks so clearly, with its intoxicating aromatic profile, tension and power. It is without question the benchmark vintage for Grand Village: both sumptuous and vital, juicy yet sophisticated, reserved and exuberant – a monumental wine.

We were also thrilled with the new Acte. Since 2014, all the Cabernet Franc comes from massale selections from the great old Bouchet parcels from Lafleur. Again, there is such tension and precision here – glorious fruit is woven gracefully into the sumptuous tannins – it finishes with real aplomb; yet more evidence that this project is realising its true potential.

And last but by no means least, we have the wonderful Grand Village Blanc. Produced from a blend of equal parts Sancerre clone Sauvignon Blanc, Bordeaux clone Sauvignon Blanc, and Semillon, this is as racy and engaging as ever. The Sancerre clones helped retain acidity and intensity during the prolonged heat and drought of the summer. This is certainly one of the most stylish examples of Grand Village to date.

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Tax Status Explained

IB stands for In Bond. Wines that are stored In Bond have not had UK Duty and VAT paid on them.

Most of our wines are available for purchase under bond, as fine wines often need to be laid down in order to allow them to mature. Many clients choose therefore to store them in our bonded warehouse and pay the tax as and when they wish to get the wines delivered. Please note that Wines purchased In Bond can be exported to non-EU countries without the need for Duty and VAT to be paid.

DP stands for duty paid. If you wish to get wines delivered for drinking, the duty and VAT will need to be paid as it leaves its bonded state in the warehouse. The wine is then said to be duty paid.

All taxes must be paid in order for us to be authorised to ship or deliver wine (unless the wine is bonded and being moved to another bonded warehouse or being shipped directly outside of the EU.)

EP stands for En Primeur. These wines are currently held with the Estate and Domaine’s we work with and will be shipped in due course.